Potentiometer Failure Analysis

A potentiometer is a manually adjustable electrical resistor that uses three terminals. In many electrical devices, potentiometers are what establish the levels of output. For example, in a loudspeaker, a potentiometer is used to adjust the volume. In a television set, computer monitor or light dimmer, it can be used to control the brightness of the screen or light bulb.

Success Stories

Trimpot Potentiometer Failures

Trimpot Potentiometer Failures

Gideon Analytical Laboratories received several Bourns Trimpot Trimming Potentiometers for failure analysis. A Potentiometer (known as a pot) is a three-terminal resistor with a sliding contact that forms an adjustable voltage divider. They are widely used for volume control in radio and television receivers. The Bourns Trimpot Trimming Potentiometer 3006P 203 has a standard resistance range of 10 to 5 megohms, the power rating of 400 volts maximum, and is ROHS compliant.
Bourns RJR26 Potentiometer Failure

Bourns RJR26 Potentiometer Failure

Gideon Analytical Labs performed failure Analysis on a failed RJR26 Bourns Potentiometer. The application failure was noticed when a lower than expected resistance value and, eventually, open in the potentiometer. A potentiometer (or pot) is a simple electromechanical transducer. It converts rotary or linear motion from the operator into a change of resistance, and this change is used to control the resistance within a circuit. The pot (also known as a rheostat) is essentially a variable wire wound resistor or a carbon or metal film with a swiper.